State-local information systems link state and local agencies together in a coherent service delivery or administrative environment. These systems facilitate information sharing for the achievement of mutual program or administrative goals. They address both individual and common needs and result from ongoing discourse among state and local participants. The main product of the project is a set of best practice guidelines for creating these systems.

The full set of guidelines, Tying a Sensible Knot: A Practical Guide to State-Local Information Systems, is available in both print and electronic form. It includes a full discussion of all the environmental factors, principles, and practices summarized below plus descriptions of the eleven state-local projects involved in the study. Each practice is illustrated by vignettes from the projects.